US20190072761A1 - Cleaning device for an imaging sensor - Google Patents
Cleaning device for an imaging sensor Download PDFInfo
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- US20190072761A1 US20190072761A1 US16/181,023 US201816181023A US2019072761A1 US 20190072761 A1 US20190072761 A1 US 20190072761A1 US 201816181023 A US201816181023 A US 201816181023A US 2019072761 A1 US2019072761 A1 US 2019072761A1
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- Prior art keywords
- cleaning
- cleaning device
- camera
- sensing element
- pattern
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 137
- 238000003384 imaging method Methods 0.000 title description 6
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 32
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 claims description 17
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910001285 shape-memory alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000010998 test method Methods 0.000 claims description 5
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- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 3
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- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010257 thawing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- PIVBPZFQXKMHBD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1,2,3-trichloro-5-(2,5-dichlorophenyl)benzene Chemical compound ClC1=CC=C(Cl)C(C=2C=C(Cl)C(Cl)=C(Cl)C=2)=C1 PIVBPZFQXKMHBD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000226585 Antennaria plantaginifolia Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920001410 Microfiber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013500 data storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003658 microfiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
- G02B27/0006—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00 with means to keep optical surfaces clean, e.g. by preventing or removing dirt, stains, contamination, condensation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B1/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
- B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
- B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
- B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
- B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens
- B60S1/566—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens including wiping devices
Definitions
- the technical field relates general to cleaning devices for imaging sensors and more particularly to cleaning devices for cameras on a vehicle.
- Cameras and other imaging sensors may be integrated into automobiles and/or other vehicles for various purposes. These purposes include, but are not limited to, rear-view cameras for collision avoidance, assisted driving functions, and partial- or fully-autonomous driving.
- a cleaning device for cleaning a sensing element includes a cleaning element movable between a first position and a second position to contact a surface of the sensing element.
- the cleaning device also includes a mechanism coupled to the cleaning element to move the cleaning element between the first position and the second position.
- a method of operating a cleaning device for cleaning a sensing element the cleaning device having a cleaning element movable between a first position and a second position to contact a surface of the sensing element and a mechanism coupled to the cleaning element to move the cleaning element between the first position and the second position, the method includes sensing a degradation of a signal supplied by the sensing element. The method also includes applying an electric current to a shape-memory alloy to actuate movement of the cleaning element in response to the sensing of the degradation of the signal.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of a camera and a cleaning device with a cleaning element in two different positions according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 2 is a rear view of the cleaning device and camera according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device according to line A-A in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device and camera according to line B-B in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device and camera according to line C-C in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 6 is a side view of the camera and the cleaning device with the cleaning element in one position according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device with a housing according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the cleaning device with the housing according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cleaning device, the camera, and a fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cleaning device, the camera, and the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 13 is a side view of the device, the camera, and the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a valve of the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 15 is a side view of the cleaning device and camera with a target object in multiple positions according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 16 is a side view of the camera, cleaning device, and target object according to one exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 17 is the side view of the camera, cleaning device, and target object according to the embodiment of FIG. 16 showing spraying a fluid onto the camera.
- FIG. 18 is a test pattern applied to the target object according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a method of testing the cleaning of the camera with the cleaning device according to one exemplary embodiment.
- a cleaning device 100 for cleaning a sensing element 102 is shown herein.
- the sensing element 102 is a camera lens (not separately numbered) of a camera 104 .
- the camera 104 may be utilized in a vehicle (not shown), e.g., an automobile, for viewing, sensing, and/or otherwise imaging the environment external from the vehicle.
- a vehicle not shown
- the sensing element 102 may be any device utilized for sensing and not necessarily a camera lens.
- the cleaning device 100 includes a cleaning element 106 movable between a first position (shown as 106 a ) and a second position (shown as 106 b ). It should be appreciated that the figures show a single cleaning element 106 simultaneously in the first position 106 a and the second position 106 b. However, multiple cleaning elements 106 could be implemented based on various factors appreciated by those skilled in the art.
- the cleaning element 106 a, 106 b is configured to contact a surface (not shown) of the sensing element 102 in at least one of the positions 106 a, 106 b and/or while moving between the positions 106 a, 106 b.
- the cleaning element 100 may include a fabric for providing the contact with the surface of the sensing element 102 , e.g., the lens of the camera.
- the fabric of the cleaning element 106 may be a micro-fiber cloth.
- the cleaning element 100 may be formed from a rubber or similar substance.
- the cleaning element 106 has a generally planar, or blade-like shape, similar to a windshield wiper blade. The cleaning element 106 may alternatively have a slightly arcuate shape to match the shape of the sensing element 102 .
- the cleaning device 100 may include a secondary lens 107 , as seen in FIGS. 4, 5, and 9 .
- This secondary lens is unmovable and permanently installed in front of the lens of the camera 104 .
- the cleaning element engages this secondary lens 107 instead of the lens of the camera 104 , thus protecting the sensitive and often expensive lens of the camera 104 .
- the cleaning device 100 includes a mechanism 108 coupled to the cleaning element 106 to move the cleaning element 106 between the first position 106 a and the second position 106 b.
- the mechanism 108 includes at least one arm 112 , 200 , 1100 coupled to the cleaning element 106 for supporting the cleaning element 106 .
- the mechanism 108 includes a first side arm 112 and a second side arm 200 connected to opposite ends (not numbered) of the cleaning element 106 .
- the side arms 112 , 200 extend away from the cleaning element 106 and are coupled to and rotate about a pin 200 defining an axis 116 .
- the mechanism 108 further includes at least one spring 118 coupled to at least one of the side arms 112 , 200 to connect the respective side arm 112 , 200 to a retainer bracket 120 .
- the mechanism 108 also includes an actuator (not numbered) for causing the movement of the cleaning element 106 .
- the actuator causes movement of the cleaning element 106 from the first position 106 a to the second position 106 b, while the spring 118 causes movement of the cleaning element 106 from the second position 106 b to the first position 106 a, when the actuator is deactivated.
- the actuator includes a shape-memory alloy 122 .
- the shape-memory alloy 122 is a material that changes shape (i.e., deforms) when heated and then returns to an un-deformed shape when no longer heated.
- the heating may occur by selectively electrifying, i.e., running a current through, the shape-memory alloy 112 .
- the at least one spring 118 aids movement of the cleaning element 106 back to the first position 10 a and returning the shape-memory alloy 122 back to its un-deformed state.
- the mechanism 108 includes a center arm 1100 coupled to the cleaning element 106 .
- the center arm 1100 is connected to a top edge (not numbered) of the cleaning element 106 near a center (not numbered) of the top edge.
- the center arm 1100 extends perpendicularly away from the cleaning element 106 and then bends approximately 90 degrees to run generally parallel to the cleaning element, on the other side of the camera 104 .
- the mechanism 108 includes a pair of side arms 1102 coupled to the center arm 1100 on either side of the camera 104 .
- the at least one spring 118 is connected to at least one of the side arms 1102 .
- the center arm 1100 and the cleaning element 106 each define a fluidic channel (not visible).
- the fluidic channel includes an inlet 1104 for receiving fluid and an outlet 1106 for dispensing the fluid.
- the fluidic channels are in fluid communication with one another such that fluid may flow from the inlet 1104 , through the center arm 1100 , through the cleaning element 106 , and out the outlet 1106 .
- a liquid may be sent through the fluidic channels and exit the outlet 1106 onto the sensing element 102 prior to cleaning of the sensing element 102 by the cleaning element 106 .
- the mechanism 108 may include a fluid reservoir 1110 for storing a fluid.
- the fluid stored by the fluid reservoir 1110 may be the washer fluid used for cleaning the windshield of the vehicle.
- the fluid reservoir 1110 shown in FIGS. 11-13 defines an inlet 1112 for receiving the fluid.
- the fluid reservoir 1110 may include a check valve (not shown) for allowing fluid to enter the fluid reservoir 1110 through the inlet 1112 , but not exit through the inlet 1112 .
- the fluid reservoir 1110 of this exemplary embodiment also includes a pressurizing valve 1114 to pressurize fluid within the fluid reservoir 1110 and a dispersal valve 1116 to output fluid from the fluid reservoir 1110 .
- FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded view of a valve that may be used as either the pressurizing valve 1114 or the dispersal valve 1116 .
- the dispersal valve 1116 may be in fluid communication with the inlet 1104 of the fluidic channel of the center arm 1100 by, for example, a hose (not shown).
- the mechanism 108 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 124 for supporting various electrical and electronic devices (not shown). These devices may include, but are not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, resistors, transistors, switches, transformers, rectifiers, diodes, etc.
- PCB printed circuit board
- the mechanism 108 includes at least one switch actuator 126 coupled to the at least one arm 112 , 200 , 1100 .
- the switch actuator 126 actuates a switch (not shown) on the PCB 124 when the cleaning device 106 has reached the second position 106 b. As such, the positional status of the cleaning device 106 may be reported to a microprocessor (not shown) or similar device.
- portions of the camera 104 and/or portions of the mechanism 102 may be surrounded by a housing 204 to protect certain elements of the camera 104 and/or the mechanism 102 .
- a method (not shown) of operating the cleaning device 100 includes sensing a degradation of a signal supplied by the sensing element 102 . This may be accomplished by software routines analyzing the signal. The method may also include applying an electric current to the shape-memory alloy 122 to actuate movement of the cleaning element 106 in response to the sensing of the degradation of the signal.
- FIG. 15 shows a side view of the cleaning device 100 with a camera 104 according to another exemplary embodiment.
- the cleaning element 106 may be moved vertically, i.e., up and down, in order to touch the camera lens 102 to achieve lens cleaning, as described above.
- the cleaning element 106 may be utilized as a targeted object 1500 to perform camera function self-test, and camera cleaning result check, as well as an online lens calibration and lens alignment test.
- the distance between the targeted object 1500 and camera lens 102 is greater than a minimum distance to obtain proper focus of the camera lens 102 .
- the targeted object 1500 may be moved horizontally to have a minimum distance to camera lens 102 to perform lens cleaning result check, and camera function self-test as well as an online lens calibration and lens alignment test.
- a light source (not shown) may be added to ensure pattern is visible at all times.
- Movement of the targeted object 1500 may be achieved by various mechanisms.
- a memory wire 1502 which may lengthen and/or contract based on heat and/or electric current disposed therethrough, may be utilized to drive movement of the cleaning element 106 , and thus the targeted object 1500 .
- FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate a hydraulic mechanism 1600 used to present the targeted object 1500 and clean the lens. Particularly, a spray nozzle 1602 is utilized to spray fluid on the lens 102 , as shown in FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 18 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a pattern 1800 of the targeted object 1500 used for camera self-test, camera cleaning result check, and online lens calibration and lens alignment test.
- a reference copy of the pattern 1800 may be stored in a non-volatile memory in the camera 104 and/or other data storage device to be used in comparison to the viewed pattern 1800 .
- the camera 104 senses the pattern 1800 and compares it with the reference picture pattern stored in the non-volatile memory to perform a multi-function test.
- FIG. 19 One example of a multi-function test method 1900 is shown in FIG. 19 and described hereafter.
- the method 1900 described hereafter may be performed by one or more microprocessors (not shown) configured to execute a program.
- the method 1900 checks ambient temperature, at 1904 . If ambient temperature is less than defrosting temperature (calibration value), the system performs camera ice defrosting function, at 1906 , which may utilize heated fluid.
- the method 1900 commands a camera cleaning, at 1910 , because during periods of harsh weather, and when the image is obscured due to accumulation of dust and grime on the camera lens 102 .
- the cleaning element 106 works to remove snow, slush, road salt, and/or grime that accumulates on vehicles, particularly in snowy regions.
- the cleaning element 106 After camera cleaning completed, at 1912 , the cleaning element 106 will be maintained at a low position to the camera lens 102 with minimum distance horizontally, at 1914 . At this point the camera 104 is sensing the targeted object 1500 on the inside of the cleaning element 106 , at 1916 , checking camera cleaning results by comparing the sensed image to the stored picture in the memory to determine if camera cleaning results are OK or not, at 1918 . That is, the method 1900 checks to see if the pattern 1800 of the target object 1500 is substantially variant from the stored reference copy of the pattern 1800 . If it is not, the method 1900 will command camera cleaning again, and check again. After a couple of iterations of camera cleaning operations, if camera cleaning results are still not OK, at 1918 , the method sets a camera blockage fault flag, at 1919 , and stops the execution.
- the system starts to perform camera self-test, at 1920 . It uses the sensed image from camera cleaning results check, exams the image for barrel and pincushion distortion to the stored picture pattern in the memory.
- the camera self-test checks camera function to make sure that it can perform function correctly, at 1922 . If it does not, the camera malfunction flag is set, at 1923 , and stops the execution.
- the camera 104 may be deactivated if the camera malfunction flag is set.
- system performs an online lens calibration and lens alignment test, at 1924 .
- the pattern 1800 of the picture on the inside of the fluid outlet/blade is used for online lens calibration and lens alignment test.
- the test can be modified from standard camera lens calibration and lens alignment test procedure.
- cleaning element 106 will move back to initial position (i.e., the up position). Further, the initial position (i.e., the up position).
- the cleaning device shown and described herein provides several advantages of other devices. Particularly, the cleaning device assists in defrosting ice on the camera during a cold temperature condition, provides automatic self-cleaning of the camera, provides automatic self-test of the camera, and online lens calibration and lens alignment.
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Abstract
Description
- The technical field relates general to cleaning devices for imaging sensors and more particularly to cleaning devices for cameras on a vehicle.
- Cameras and other imaging sensors may be integrated into automobiles and/or other vehicles for various purposes. These purposes include, but are not limited to, rear-view cameras for collision avoidance, assisted driving functions, and partial- or fully-autonomous driving.
- Unfortunately, these cameras or imaging sensors may be obstructed, and thus lose functionality, due to water, snow, ice, dust, dirt, mud, and/or other substances. As such, there remains an opportunity to return these cameras or imaging sensors to a fully functional state with a cleaning device. In addition, other desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the subsequent summary and detailed description, and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background.
- In one exemplary embodiment, a cleaning device for cleaning a sensing element includes a cleaning element movable between a first position and a second position to contact a surface of the sensing element. The cleaning device also includes a mechanism coupled to the cleaning element to move the cleaning element between the first position and the second position.
- In one exemplary embodiment, a method of operating a cleaning device for cleaning a sensing element, the cleaning device having a cleaning element movable between a first position and a second position to contact a surface of the sensing element and a mechanism coupled to the cleaning element to move the cleaning element between the first position and the second position, the method includes sensing a degradation of a signal supplied by the sensing element. The method also includes applying an electric current to a shape-memory alloy to actuate movement of the cleaning element in response to the sensing of the degradation of the signal.
- Other advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a side view of a camera and a cleaning device with a cleaning element in two different positions according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a rear view of the cleaning device and camera according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device according to line A-A inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device and camera according to line B-B inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device and camera according to line C-C inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 6 is a side view of the camera and the cleaning device with the cleaning element in one position according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device with a housing according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the cleaning device with the housing according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the cleaning device and the camera without the housing according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cleaning device, the camera, and a fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cleaning device, the camera, and the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 13 is a side view of the device, the camera, and the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment; and -
FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a valve of the fluid reservoir according to one exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 15 is a side view of the cleaning device and camera with a target object in multiple positions according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 16 is a side view of the camera, cleaning device, and target object according to one exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 17 is the side view of the camera, cleaning device, and target object according to the embodiment ofFIG. 16 showing spraying a fluid onto the camera. -
FIG. 18 is a test pattern applied to the target object according to one exemplary embodiment; and -
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a method of testing the cleaning of the camera with the cleaning device according to one exemplary embodiment. - Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, a
cleaning device 100 for cleaning asensing element 102 is shown herein. - In the illustrated embodiments, the
sensing element 102 is a camera lens (not separately numbered) of acamera 104. Thecamera 104 may be utilized in a vehicle (not shown), e.g., an automobile, for viewing, sensing, and/or otherwise imaging the environment external from the vehicle. Those skilled in the art appreciate thatsuch cameras 104 may be utilized as “back-up” cameras, in automated driving, and/or other emerging applications. Of course, thecamera 104 may also be utilized in non-vehicular applications. Furthermore, thesensing element 102 may be any device utilized for sensing and not necessarily a camera lens. - The
cleaning device 100 includes acleaning element 106 movable between a first position (shown as 106 a) and a second position (shown as 106 b). It should be appreciated that the figures show asingle cleaning element 106 simultaneously in thefirst position 106 a and thesecond position 106 b. However,multiple cleaning elements 106 could be implemented based on various factors appreciated by those skilled in the art. Thecleaning element sensing element 102 in at least one of thepositions positions cleaning element 100 may include a fabric for providing the contact with the surface of thesensing element 102, e.g., the lens of the camera. As just one example, the fabric of thecleaning element 106 may be a micro-fiber cloth. In another exemplary embodiment, thecleaning element 100 may be formed from a rubber or similar substance. In the exemplary embodiments, thecleaning element 106 has a generally planar, or blade-like shape, similar to a windshield wiper blade. Thecleaning element 106 may alternatively have a slightly arcuate shape to match the shape of thesensing element 102. - The
cleaning device 100 may include asecondary lens 107, as seen inFIGS. 4, 5, and 9 .This secondary lens is unmovable and permanently installed in front of the lens of thecamera 104. In some embodiments, the cleaning element engages thissecondary lens 107 instead of the lens of thecamera 104, thus protecting the sensitive and often expensive lens of thecamera 104. - The
cleaning device 100 includes amechanism 108 coupled to thecleaning element 106 to move thecleaning element 106 between thefirst position 106 a and thesecond position 106 b. In the exemplary embodiments, themechanism 108 includes at least onearm cleaning element 106 for supporting thecleaning element 106. - In the exemplary embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1-10 , themechanism 108 includes afirst side arm 112 and asecond side arm 200 connected to opposite ends (not numbered) of thecleaning element 106. Theside arms cleaning element 106 and are coupled to and rotate about apin 200 defining anaxis 116. Themechanism 108 further includes at least onespring 118 coupled to at least one of theside arms respective side arm retainer bracket 120. - The
mechanism 108 also includes an actuator (not numbered) for causing the movement of thecleaning element 106. In the exemplary embodiments, the actuator causes movement of thecleaning element 106 from thefirst position 106 a to thesecond position 106 b, while thespring 118 causes movement of thecleaning element 106 from thesecond position 106 b to thefirst position 106 a, when the actuator is deactivated. In the exemplary embodiments, the actuator includes a shape-memory alloy 122. As appreciated by those skilled in the art, the shape-memory alloy 122 is a material that changes shape (i.e., deforms) when heated and then returns to an un-deformed shape when no longer heated. The heating may occur by selectively electrifying, i.e., running a current through, the shape-memory alloy 112. The at least onespring 118 aids movement of thecleaning element 106 back to the first position 10a and returning the shape-memory alloy 122 back to its un-deformed state. - In the exemplary embodiment shown in
FIGS. 11-13 , themechanism 108 includes acenter arm 1100 coupled to thecleaning element 106. Thecenter arm 1100 is connected to a top edge (not numbered) of thecleaning element 106 near a center (not numbered) of the top edge. Thecenter arm 1100 extends perpendicularly away from thecleaning element 106 and then bends approximately 90 degrees to run generally parallel to the cleaning element, on the other side of thecamera 104. Themechanism 108 includes a pair ofside arms 1102 coupled to thecenter arm 1100 on either side of thecamera 104. The at least onespring 118 is connected to at least one of theside arms 1102. - In this embodiment, the
center arm 1100 and thecleaning element 106 each define a fluidic channel (not visible). The fluidic channel includes aninlet 1104 for receiving fluid and anoutlet 1106 for dispensing the fluid. The fluidic channels are in fluid communication with one another such that fluid may flow from theinlet 1104, through thecenter arm 1100, through thecleaning element 106, and out theoutlet 1106. In an exemplary operation, a liquid may be sent through the fluidic channels and exit theoutlet 1106 onto thesensing element 102 prior to cleaning of thesensing element 102 by thecleaning element 106. - The
mechanism 108 may include afluid reservoir 1110 for storing a fluid. In one example, the fluid stored by thefluid reservoir 1110 may be the washer fluid used for cleaning the windshield of the vehicle. Thefluid reservoir 1110 shown inFIGS. 11-13 defines aninlet 1112 for receiving the fluid. Thefluid reservoir 1110 may include a check valve (not shown) for allowing fluid to enter thefluid reservoir 1110 through theinlet 1112, but not exit through theinlet 1112. - The
fluid reservoir 1110 of this exemplary embodiment also includes a pressurizingvalve 1114 to pressurize fluid within thefluid reservoir 1110 and adispersal valve 1116 to output fluid from thefluid reservoir 1110.FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded view of a valve that may be used as either the pressurizingvalve 1114 or thedispersal valve 1116. Thedispersal valve 1116 may be in fluid communication with theinlet 1104 of the fluidic channel of thecenter arm 1100 by, for example, a hose (not shown). - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , themechanism 108 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 124 for supporting various electrical and electronic devices (not shown). These devices may include, but are not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, resistors, transistors, switches, transformers, rectifiers, diodes, etc. - In the exemplary embodiments, the
mechanism 108 includes at least oneswitch actuator 126 coupled to the at least onearm switch actuator 126 actuates a switch (not shown) on thePCB 124 when thecleaning device 106 has reached thesecond position 106 b. As such, the positional status of thecleaning device 106 may be reported to a microprocessor (not shown) or similar device. - Referring to
FIGS. 2, 9, and 10 , portions of thecamera 104 and/or portions of themechanism 102 may be surrounded by ahousing 204 to protect certain elements of thecamera 104 and/or themechanism 102. - In one exemplary embodiment, a method (not shown) of operating the
cleaning device 100 includes sensing a degradation of a signal supplied by thesensing element 102. This may be accomplished by software routines analyzing the signal. The method may also include applying an electric current to the shape-memory alloy 122 to actuate movement of thecleaning element 106 in response to the sensing of the degradation of the signal. -
FIG. 15 shows a side view of thecleaning device 100 with acamera 104 according to another exemplary embodiment. Thecleaning element 106 may be moved vertically, i.e., up and down, in order to touch thecamera lens 102 to achieve lens cleaning, as described above. However, in this embodiment, thecleaning element 106 may be utilized as a targetedobject 1500 to perform camera function self-test, and camera cleaning result check, as well as an online lens calibration and lens alignment test. - It is desired that the distance between the targeted
object 1500 andcamera lens 102 is greater than a minimum distance to obtain proper focus of thecamera lens 102. As such, the targetedobject 1500 may be moved horizontally to have a minimum distance tocamera lens 102 to perform lens cleaning result check, and camera function self-test as well as an online lens calibration and lens alignment test. A light source (not shown) may be added to ensure pattern is visible at all times. - Movement of the targeted
object 1500 may be achieved by various mechanisms. In one example, as shown inFIG. 15 , amemory wire 1502, which may lengthen and/or contract based on heat and/or electric current disposed therethrough, may be utilized to drive movement of thecleaning element 106, and thus the targetedobject 1500. - There are multiple options identified for presenting the targeted
object 1500 and cleaning of the viewing area. Current camera technology provides a wide viewing area so the targeted object does not necessarily need to be directly before the lens. -
FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate ahydraulic mechanism 1600 used to present the targetedobject 1500 and clean the lens. Particularly, aspray nozzle 1602 is utilized to spray fluid on thelens 102, as shown inFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 18 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of apattern 1800 of the targetedobject 1500 used for camera self-test, camera cleaning result check, and online lens calibration and lens alignment test. A reference copy of thepattern 1800 may be stored in a non-volatile memory in thecamera 104 and/or other data storage device to be used in comparison to the viewedpattern 1800. Thecamera 104 senses thepattern 1800 and compares it with the reference picture pattern stored in the non-volatile memory to perform a multi-function test. - One example of a
multi-function test method 1900 is shown inFIG. 19 and described hereafter. Themethod 1900 described hereafter may be performed by one or more microprocessors (not shown) configured to execute a program. - After the key-on, at 1902, the
method 1900 checks ambient temperature, at 1904. If ambient temperature is less than defrosting temperature (calibration value), the system performs camera ice defrosting function, at 1906, which may utilize heated fluid. - When driver switches gear selector to the reverse gear, at 1908, the
method 1900 commands a camera cleaning, at 1910, because during periods of harsh weather, and when the image is obscured due to accumulation of dust and grime on thecamera lens 102. Thecleaning element 106 works to remove snow, slush, road salt, and/or grime that accumulates on vehicles, particularly in snowy regions. - After camera cleaning completed, at 1912, the
cleaning element 106 will be maintained at a low position to thecamera lens 102 with minimum distance horizontally, at 1914. At this point thecamera 104 is sensing the targetedobject 1500 on the inside of thecleaning element 106, at 1916, checking camera cleaning results by comparing the sensed image to the stored picture in the memory to determine if camera cleaning results are OK or not, at 1918. That is, themethod 1900 checks to see if thepattern 1800 of thetarget object 1500 is substantially variant from the stored reference copy of thepattern 1800. If it is not, themethod 1900 will command camera cleaning again, and check again. After a couple of iterations of camera cleaning operations, if camera cleaning results are still not OK, at 1918, the method sets a camera blockage fault flag, at 1919, and stops the execution. - If camera cleaning results are OK, the system starts to perform camera self-test, at 1920. It uses the sensed image from camera cleaning results check, exams the image for barrel and pincushion distortion to the stored picture pattern in the memory. The camera self-test checks camera function to make sure that it can perform function correctly, at 1922. If it does not, the camera malfunction flag is set, at 1923, and stops the execution. The
camera 104 may be deactivated if the camera malfunction flag is set. - If camera self-test is completed, and there is no camera malfunction, then system performs an online lens calibration and lens alignment test, at 1924. The
pattern 1800 of the picture on the inside of the fluid outlet/blade is used for online lens calibration and lens alignment test. The test can be modified from standard camera lens calibration and lens alignment test procedure. - After all tests are completed, cleaning
element 106 will move back to initial position (i.e., the up position). Further, the - The cleaning device shown and described herein provides several advantages of other devices. Particularly, the cleaning device assists in defrosting ice on the camera during a cold temperature condition, provides automatic self-cleaning of the camera, provides automatic self-test of the camera, and online lens calibration and lens alignment.
- The present invention has been described herein in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Obviously, many modifications and variations of the invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (14)
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US201662331011P | 2016-05-03 | 2016-05-03 | |
PCT/US2017/030766 WO2017192672A1 (en) | 2016-05-03 | 2017-05-03 | Cleaning device for an imaging sensor |
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Also Published As
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US11169373B2 (en) | 2021-11-09 |
EP3452866A1 (en) | 2019-03-13 |
WO2017192672A1 (en) | 2017-11-09 |
EP3452866B1 (en) | 2022-07-06 |
CN109477963A (en) | 2019-03-15 |
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